Our story

Building a business around you

Kalmar is an independent business area within Cargotec. We are the market leader in cargo-handling equipment, and port automation and services. Innovation has always been at the heart of our business – we’ve consistently revolutionized container-handling solutions for the benefit of our customers.

Innovation has always been at the heart of our business. We developed the first industrial straddle carrier in the 1940s, and the first RoRo tractor in the 1970s. To meet the need for more efficient container handling, Kalmar commercialized the first generation of reachstackers in the 1980s and, a decade later, introduced the first container handler for rough terrain operations. Our first steps in terminal automation were taken more than 20 years ago.

With these innovations and many others we revolutionized the cargo and container-handling industries. And with our passion, combined experience, and deep knowledge of the industry, our aim is to exceed your expectations again and again.

Today, Kalmar is the industry forerunner in port automation and energy-efficient cargo handling. We are unique in our ability to enable seamless integration of different terminal processes. We want to be your true and valued business partner – one that can provide the complete solution: the best products, comprehensive services, and unique integration and automation capabilities for the benefit of your business.

Our promise is summarized in five words: making your every move count.